The Mercedes-Benz M275.950 is a 5,980 cc, twin-turbocharged V12 petrol engine produced between 2006 and 2013. It features a 60-degree V12 configuration with dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust, and sequential multi-port fuel injection. In standard tune, it delivers 368 kW (500 PS) and 800 Nm of torque, providing exceptional power and refinement for flagship grand tourers and luxury sedans.
Fitted exclusively to the W221 S-Class and R230 SL-Class, the M275.950 was engineered for ultimate smoothness, effortless acceleration, and silent cruising at high speeds. Emissions compliance was achieved through electronically controlled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), dual catalytic converters per bank, and multiple oxygen sensor feedback systems, enabling Euro 4 compliance across all production years.
One documented service concern is premature wear of the high-pressure fuel pump drive shaft, which can lead to fuel delivery failure. This issue, detailed in Mercedes-Benz Service Bulletin 08/2010 (Ref. 275.950-0801), is attributed to torsional stress in early pump coupling designs. From 2009, revised drive shafts with reinforced splines were implemented across the M275 engine family.
All production years 2006–2013 meet Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Mercedes-Benz M275.950 is a 5,980 cc twin-turbocharged V12 petrol engine designed for flagship luxury vehicles (2006–2013). It combines DOHC architecture with variable valve timing and twin-scroll turbochargers to deliver immense power and near-silent operation. Engineered to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances high performance with emissions control for global markets.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,980 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 98 RON minimum) | |
| Configuration | 60° V12, DOHC, 48-valve | |
| Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.6 mm × 93.0 mm | |
| Power output | 368 kW (500 PS) @ 5,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 800 Nm @ 2,000–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (ME-SFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Twin-scroll turbochargers (one per cylinder bank), intercooled | |
| Timing system | Dual chain (primary and secondary), non-interference design | |
| Oil type | MB 229.5 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 268 kg |
The twin-turbo V12 delivers immense torque from low rpm, ideal for silent highway cruising but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using MB 229.5 specification oil to prevent high-pressure fuel pump drive shaft wear. Using lower-specification oils or extended intervals can accelerate degradation of the torsional coupling. Fuel quality is critical—minimum 98 RON unleaded petrol must be used to prevent knock sensor intervention and protect turbochargers. Intake manifold gaskets and valve cover seals are prone to age-related leaks; pre-2009 models should be inspected for early fuel pump drive shaft faults per SIB 08/2010. Emissions systems require functional oxygen sensors and dual catalytic converters to remain within Euro 4 limits.
Oil Specs: Requires MB 229.5 (5W-40) specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 08/2010). Compatible with ACEA A3/B4 standards.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2006–2013 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679). No market-specific variants.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output remains consistent across fuel qualities meeting 98 RON minimum (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A32011).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A31573, A31892, SIB 08/2010
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
DIN Standards: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The Mercedes-Benz M275.950 was used exclusively across Mercedes-Benz's W221 and R230 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-exhaust routing in the S-Class and revised engine mounts in the SL-Class-and from 2009 the updated fuel pump drive shafts were introduced, creating minor service part differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Mercedes-Benz TIS A31573). The 8th digit of the VIN identifies the engine family ('G' for M275 series). Pre-2009 models use silver cam covers with black plastic intake manifolds; post-2009 units retain the same appearance but feature revised fuel pump drive shafts. Critical differentiation from M275.960: M275.950 has a 6.0L displacement (bore 82.6 mm), while M275.960 is 6.3L (bore 86.0 mm). Service parts require VIN verification—fuel pump couplings for pre-2009 builds are not interchangeable with post-2009 revisions (Mercedes-Benz SIB 08/2010).
The M275.950's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump drive shaft wear on pre-2009 builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended oil intervals. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2011 indicated a significant portion of pre-2009 engines required drive shaft replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show increased emissions failures linked to EGR and oxygen sensor faults in high-mileage units. Infrequent oil changes and low-quality fuel exacerbate drive shaft and turbocharger wear, making maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2008–2012) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014–2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M275950.
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